Awareness, Detection & Prevention

Athletes are unique. They face pressures your average person can’t relate to, and high performance environments can make things worse. Wellbeing support has to be done in a way that works for athletes, and that’s the thinking behind our approach. 

Awareness

Training must be more than a box ticking exercise. Luca’s awareness sessions are delivered by our Ambassadors, former athletes who’ve been there, done it, and have a lived experience. Sadly, we all know of athletes who have struggled. Our Ambassadors didn’t receive the early support they needed, but are determined to ensure the next generation does.

Expert check-ins

Athletes can request to speak with an independent Luca psychologist at any time and an appointment is made if an athlete screens as being at risk. Talking is essential, and it’s strictly confidential. Our psychologists will determine if further help is needed or if checking-in again after the next screening is more appropriate.

Screening

Regular screening enables athletes to make sense of how they’re feeling and to receive help ASAP. Poor mental health is harder to treat the more severe it becomes. Athletes can also ‘refer-a-friend’ if they are worried about a teammate. This will lead to a Luca psychologist contacting that individual to make sure they are alright.

Data on your terms

Health data is incredibly personal. We don’t share any individual data back to teams. Teams receive aggregated and anonymised data reports following each round of screening. They know how the collective is doing but not the individual. Athletes also have the ability to leave anonymous feedback on the environment.

No longer a nice to have

Our understanding of mental wellbeing has increased enormously in recent years. We now know our mental health constantly ebbs and flows, and must therefore be prioritised and supported. Athletes have to make all sorts of sacrifices to be at the top, but their happiness doesn’t need to be one of them. There’s another way.